Beginner Network

[riccjohn]

Ok, so I have a few PC's that I would like to set up so that they can share files. I also have a mac that I would like to incorporate into the network, but first, I think I should just ask how to network the PC's. I have a linksys wireless modem connected to my cable line, and linksys wireless recievers on all my PC's (my mac uses its airport). Right now they all share an internet connection, but thats only because all you have to do is install the software and plug everything in for that to work. Can anyone link me to a complete beginner's tutorial on how to set up a network? I'm sure theres one on this site but I can't find one where I can start from nothing. Also, how can I set it up so that my wireless network is secure and no one can get into it? Right now I think anyone can use my internet connection. I want to secure it. Thanks!

[flfd1wb]

ok, before enabling file sharing, i would secure the network. . .

To do this, you would need to do a few things. First being go into the setup page of the router. ( the default IP address from IE. Usualy 192.168.1.1) and go into the Wireless section, and choose security. From here you can choose what type of encryption you want. (WEP, or WPA ) the latter being more secure. You'll need to also choose a key, or password if you may, that will be on the wireless end of the network. If you give me the exact router model # ( e.g. WRT54GS ) I can give you exact details how to do this if you have trouble.

Next, you'll need to tell all of your computers that connect wirelessly the new password ( network key ) otherwise when they try to connect, they wont have the key, and you wont get internet access. You can do this from the adapters control panel usually, but the easiest way would be to just reinstall the software and when it asks if its encrpted, follow the prompts and input all the info. Again, if you give me the exact Adapter you use, and are still having trouble, i can give you exact directions.

next would be to make sure you have an internet connection on all PCs. once you do, you're off to networking them, which is the easiest part.

START > CONTROL PANEL > NETWORK SETUP WIZARD. This wizard will do everything for you. Once you are networked, you can either access each others Shared Folders, or actually map a drive (e.g. Drive Z ) to another computer. let me know how it goes

[flfd1wb]

PS. There are other things you can do to make it even more secure, such as Disabling DHCP, giving Static IPs, and Disabling a network broadcast, but i'll go over those with you after i know i didn't lose you so far.